MOTORING NEWS - Due to the economic knock our country has taken this year, more than two-thirds of South Africans are resorting to using second-hand tyres to save on motor vehicle costs. This came to light in a statement released by the South African Tyre Manufacturers Conference (SATMC) last week.
They warn the consequences of saving financially now, could be detrimental and life-threatening when on the road, particularly during the festive season.
It was reported that in 2019, more than 60% of second-hand tyres sold in South Africa were illegal. It is fair to assume that this number has increased with the rising unemployment rate and increased financial strain on consumers. "That's a frightening thought when you consider that burst tyres are responsible for 73.5% of accidents caused by the mechanics of a car," explains Darren Hayes-Powell, chairperson of SATMC. Every year, more than 14 000 deaths are recorded due to road accidents.Forty-one percent of these road accidents can be attributed to the mechanics of a car, including tyres, according to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC).
Darren Hayes-Powell, chairperson of SATMC
A burst back-wheel tyre could cause the vehicle to 'fishtail' as one loses control of the back of the car, whereas a front-tyre burst results in the car instantly steering in the direction of the burst tyre. If driving at a fast speed, this could result in a serious and oftentimes fatal accident.
To assist their customers during this challenging time, some motoring and insurance companies have granted payment holidays on monthly premiums to support the overall maintenance of their vehicles and other essentials.
It is essential to look after your vehicle's tyres as they are considered the riskiest mechanical element of your car if not properly cared for.
Ensure that:
• The tyres have no lumps, bulges, cuts or exposed fabrics.
• The tyres will not cause any damage to the road, and the metal part of the wheel does not come into contact with the road surface.
• Each tyre has a tread depth that is 1,6mm or more - this ensures sufficient grip and, therefore, better brake performance.
• There are no flat spots (the visible flattening of a tyre or bald spots with little to no tyre tread) on the tyres.
• Tyres are inflated to the correct pressure, making sure not to over- or under- inflate.
• You purchase your tyre from a reputable dealership and not on the side of the road.
• If you need to make use of a plugged or string repair, it is only a temporary solution to be used in an emergency. The tyre should be replaced as soon as possible to avoid blowouts on the road.
"Driving with unfit tyres can lead to road accidents due to negligence," says Hayes-Powell. "Furthermore, you could incur major financial debt as your insurance company can refute claims should your tyres be considered second-hand or waste tyres. It's one of the first things the assessor will check."
Criminal action can be taken against drivers or owners of vehicles with unroadworthy tyres.
Developed countries like the United Kingdom (UK) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) urge consumers not to purchase second-hand tyres due to the risk it poses. The UK is planning to introduce a law to prevent the use of old tyres, and the sale of second-hand tyres has been banned by the UAE since 2012.
Closer to home, countries like Zambia and Tanzania are following suit.
"Tyres are the only thing keeping your car safely on the road. We urge all motorists to check their tyres regularly and, if necessary, have them replaced with tyres that are deemed to be roadworthy - it's a matter of life and death," warns Hayes-Powell.
For more information on the SATMC and what they do, visit http://www.satmc.co.za/ or e-mail info@satmc.co.za.
Sources: www.dunloptyres.co.za and www.supaquick.com
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